ASHTON TO LEAVE BEHIND THE ARMBAND

Jon Ashton has taken time ahead of the return to pre-season training on Saturday, to make a big decision on his future at Stevenage.

"During the close season I've had time to reflect on last season and my future career at Stevenage. One of the main things I felt I needed to make a decision on was the captaincy.

"I want to get back to playing winning football and winning football matches for Stevenage FC. For me to do this and for the benefit of the team I feel I need to concentrate 100% on my own fitness and form so have therefore decided to hand the captaincy over.

"I feel very proud to have been captain for Stevenage FC last season and I would not want to change that. However, like I said, I feel it is beneficial for myself and the team to let someone else take that responsibility."

Manager Graham Westley added that, 'Ash gives 110% in everything he does and he gave his very best to the Captaincy in testing circumstances.

"I support him fully in his decision to re-focus on his own form and fitness which I think will be good for him and good for us.

"Hopefully, with a season behind him now after his Achilles operation and after a full summer of rest, we will see a return of the outstanding player that we know he can still be and that he began to show towards the end of last season."